An Image File of Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia.

Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia has attributed the recent wave of killings in the state to foreign attackers, stating that they speak unfamiliar languages and exhibit traits distinct from Nigerians. Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today, the governor explained that these armed assailants, unlike traditional herders, use sophisticated weapons such as AK-47s, presenting a new phase of violence.

Governor Alia revealed intelligence from locals suggesting the attackers may be foreign nationals, identifying patterns in their language that point to Malians and others. He contrasted these assailants with Nigerian ethnic groups, emphasizing that they neither look nor speak like Nigerians, adding, “They are not Nigerians—believe it.”

Alia highlighted the alarming nature of these attacks, describing them as a departure from earlier confrontations with traditional herders. He lamented that the state is under siege from armed terrorists who strike, kill, and retreat to unknown locations, compounding the insecurity crisis affecting Benue communities.

He further disclosed that the recent wave of killings in the state appears to be highly coordinated and strategically executed. Speaking on the attacks, he highlighted the porous borders between Benue and Cameroon, which he believes contribute to the ease of movement for armed groups involved in the violence.

The governor revealed intelligence reports pointing to terrorist hideouts in parts of Taraba and Nasarawa states, as well as in border regions of Cameroon. These areas are believed to serve as havens for attackers who carry out deadly assaults before retreating to secure bases across the Middle Belt region.

The statement comes amid heightened concern over escalating violence in Benue and Plateau States, where dozens have been killed, entire communities displaced, and the security crisis worsened. Governor Alia emphasized the need for urgent measures to address the root causes of the insecurity and restore stability in the affected areas.